
Who is Iran's New Supreme Leader?
From CNA Talks: A National Security Podcast by CNA
March 18, 2026 · 17 min · Episode 206
About this episode
This episode explores the background, education, and ideology of Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.
Iran has a new Supreme Leader for the first time in almost 37 years, Mojtaba Khamenei. This episode explores his background, education, and ideology. Guest Biographies Michael Connell is an expert in Persian-Gulf security-related issues, the armed forces of Iran, U.S.-GCC security cooperation, and adversary cyber policy and strategy. He has served as CNA's Field Analyst to Naval Forces Central Command. Further Reading CNA Talks: Iran's Stability in the Aftermath of the Grand Bazaar Protests CNA Report: The Evolving Russia-Iran Relationship
People in this episode
Guest: Michael Connell
Topics covered
- Iran
- Supreme Leader
- Mojtaba Khamenei
- Persian-Gulf security
- U.S.-GCC security cooperation
- adversary cyber policy
Keywords
- Iran
- Supreme Leader
- Mojtaba Khamenei
- Michael Connell
- Persian-Gulf security
- U.S.-GCC security cooperation
- cyber policy
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: CNA, Naval Forces Central Command
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